@seagraves,

Congratulations on your recent commission! You are in a great situation to complete some relevant OJT before attending BOLC. I’m not familiar with the specific job requirements of an XO at advance camp, but I think there are some areas you can focus on to help your company while simultaneously developing yourself.
– Become familiar with how the company plans training and requests resources. A majority of your focus will probably be on the resourcing piece. The more comfortable you can become in resource request/allocation the more help you will be to the commander.
– Help the commander manage training. I’m guessing most of the events are already planned but you can identify problems or friction points that will degrade training. Many problems are avoided by leader verification. Be proactive and don’t assume things will happen!
– Become familiar with the 8-Step Training Model. I am assuming Cadet Command is very regimented in regards to planning cadet training, so you are in an advantageous position to learn about this model. A lot of junior officers (CPTs included) struggle with this. If you can develop an understanding of this before BOLC, you will be a valuable asset to your first company out of BOLC.
– Keep focusing on TLPs. You recently came through advanced camp, so you probably experienced a varied understanding and execution of TLPs. Observe the cadets in the TLP process as often as your schedule allows, listen to their briefs, and help where you can. Ask your commander if there is anything you can plan, if only to practice TLPs.
– Be a sponge. Pick the brain of every leader you can and listen to their advice. They all know you are only there temporarily, so use this time to learn from experienced leaders (officers and NCOs). Don’t be afraid to ask questions, be willing to help/lead/run events, and stay motivated.

Good luck and let us know if you have any more questions,

~ Scott